AE Expeditions has successfully secured B Corp status after an intensive three-year evaluation.
- Michael Heath, CEO, lauds the cruise line’s dedication to achieving this recognition.
- B Corp certification examined the company’s worker support, environmental efforts, and community impact.
- AE Expeditions is poised for growth in 2024, with an emphasis on polar expeditions.
- The company plans to introduce new Antarctic itineraries for the 2025-26 season.
AE Expeditions has achieved the prestigious B Corp certification following a rigorous three-year process. This status cements its position as a purpose-driven organisation, as stated by Chief Executive Michael Heath. Heath applauded the firm’s team for their diligence and commitment throughout the application journey.
The B Corp assessment focused on several crucial areas: support for its workforce, environmental initiatives, governance practices, customer relations, and community impact. Each of these elements was deemed to meet the high standards required for certification. Michael Heath expressed his immense pride in this achievement, which reflects the company’s dedication to responsible and respectful travel.
Heath highlighted the company’s ongoing efforts to integrate sustainability across its operations, noting that pursuing B Corp certification was a natural extension of their existing practices. “To have an external party validate a lot of the things we’d already been doing as a business was fantastic,” he noted.
Acknowledging the widespread positive actions within the travel industry, Heath encouraged others to consider B Corp certification. He further emphasised the company’s strong start to 2024, with a pronounced increase in trade sales by 53% compared to the previous year, driven largely by polar expeditions.
Looking ahead, AE Expeditions is preparing to launch new Antarctic itineraries for the 2025-26 winter season, building on its existing offering with the Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle, and an anticipated third ship to join the fleet next year. Heath reaffirmed the importance of the UK trade market, suggesting further staffing expansions as the market continues to grow.
AE Expeditions’ B Corp certification showcases its unwavering dedication to sustainable and ethical travel practices.
